South Sudan Denies Sending Raila to Uganda to Meet Museveni over Machar’s Detention

Government Clarifies Diplomatic Position

JUBA — The South Sudanese government has strongly denied claims by Kenyan special envoy Raila Odinga that President Salva Kiir instructed him to visit Uganda regarding the detention of opposition leader Riek Machar.

David Amuor Majur, press secretary to President Kiir, addressed the media on Monday to clarify what he called misrepresentations in Odinga’s statements following his recent diplomatic visit to Juba.

Diplomatic Protocol Dispute

“The suggestion that H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit requested Hon. Odinga to meet with the President of Uganda misrepresents diplomatic norms and principles,” Majur stated. “Hon. Odinga’s mission to Uganda was prearranged and not a directive from the Government of South Sudan.”

The clarification comes after a March 29, 2025 report by Citizen Television where Odinga claimed: “I traveled to Juba as an IGAD Special Envoy… Kiir instructed me to sit with President Museveni” regarding Machar’s house arrest.

Government’s Official Position

Majur emphasized that while South Sudan welcomed Odinga’s diplomatic efforts, the government maintains its sovereignty over internal matters:

• The meeting with President Kiir focused on regional peace and cooperation
• South Sudan values partnerships with Kenya and IGAD member states
• All stakeholders must respect South Sudan’s sovereignty

Additional Concerns Raised

The press secretary also addressed two other sensitive issues:

Flag Misrepresentation: The government demanded an apology from Citizen Television for incorrectly displaying Sudan’s flag instead of South Sudan’s.

Angelina Teny’s Status: Majur denied claims that Interior Minister Angelina Teny (Machar’s spouse) is under house arrest, calling such reports “unfounded.”

Commitment to Peace and Diplomacy

Concluding his statement, Majur reaffirmed: “The Government of South Sudan remains resolute in its commitment to advancing peace, stability, and security within its borders. We are dedicated to nurturing constructive diplomatic relations with our neighboring countries and the broader international community.”

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